In a nail-biting finish at Centurion, Mohammad Abbas spearheaded Pakistan’s efforts, claiming four wickets and pushing South Africa to the brink of defeat as they struggled to chase a target of 148 runs. His exceptional bowling led to a dramatic collapse, positioning Pakistan for a historic Test win, their first in South Africa in 18 years, while also impacting South Africa’s World Test Championship ambitions.
In the gripping encounter at Centurion, South Africa found themselves a mere 32 runs away from victory, while Pakistan was close to sealing an impressive win, needing only two wickets. Mohammad Abbas emerged as the hero for Pakistan, claiming four wickets during a relentless 13-over spell, prompting a dramatic South African collapse as they struggled to chase down a modest target of 148 runs. By the lunch break, South Africa’s predicament had worsened to 116-8, relying on their lower-order batsmen Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada to avert defeat.
Abbas’s remarkable figures of 6-43 from 17 overs showcased his sensational return to form after a three-year absence from the Test side. His pivotal strike against captain Temba Bavuma, who scored 40 runs, came under controversial circumstances when Bavuma believed he had edged the ball but was deceived by the television replays, revealing the ball had not touched the bat. Abbas further dismantled the South African batting lineup, dismissing Aiden Markram, and catching both David Bedingham and Corbin Bosch behind the stumps, resulting in a staggering decline from 96-4 to 99-8.
With their first Test victory in South Africa within reach after 18 long years, Pakistan’s performance reverberated throughout the cricketing community. South Africa, however, sought to secure a win that would enhance their chances of participating in the World Test Championship final in June. Early resistance from Bavuma and Markram briefly lifted South African hopes, but Abbas took control by taking critical wickets at crucial moments, thereby shifting momentum back toward Pakistan.
This thrilling match marks the opening of a two-test series between South Africa and Pakistan, highlighting both teams’ aspirations and challenges within the ever-competitive arena of international cricket. South Africa, accustomed to dominating in their home conditions, faced unexpected resistance from Pakistan, who aimed to improve their standings and secure a historic Test victory on South African soil. The critical contributions of players like Mohammad Abbas underscore the strategic importance of bowling in the sport, particularly when under the pressure of a modest target and the weight of historical performance.
In summary, the first Test between Pakistan and South Africa at Centurion culminated in a dramatic collapse of the South African batting order, attributed to the exceptional bowling prowess of Mohammad Abbas. His performance not only brought Pakistan closer to a significant victory but also reignited the hopes of the entire team for a successful series. The match serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of Test cricket and the pivotal role that individuals can play in determining outcomes.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
